Ceramic Wall
& Counter Top Tile
Appropriate for areas such as bathroom and kitchen walls, counters
and backsplashes. Available in many colors and patterns, from bright, solid
colors, to subtle patterns to hand painted decorative tiles. Ceramic wall tiles
are generally not recommended for floors.
Ceramic Floor
Tile
Ceramic
floor tile is denser than wall tile and more appropriate for heavy-duty
applications. Not only is the bisque stronger but the glazes are also superior.
A wide range of colors and patterns are available. Glazed tiles are
impenetrable by liquids. Sizes: 1" x 1" to 16" x 16".
Porcelain
Tile
Porcelain is the most dense of all tile types. It is appropriate for
kitchen counters, heavy use and exterior applications (vertical and
horizontal). Porcelain tile is also frost-proof, so it can be used in swimming
pools and fountains. Unglazed porcelains are available in larger sizes for
commercial flooring. Sizes: 1" x 1" to 16"x 16".
Quarry
Tile
Quarry
tiles are dense, unglazed tiles that are well suited to outdoor applications.
They typically are earth tone colors of terracotta-reds, browns, and grays.
They are perfect for patios and walkways as well as commercial floors where a
non slip surface is needed. Sizes range from 6" to 12",
square & oblong
Marble
Marble
is a natural, metamorphic stone. It typically has a highly polished surface. As
with most stones, natural color variations are a part of its beauty. It is a
relatively soft stone and should not be used in applications where it will be
in continuous contact with staining agents, such as in a kitchen. Polished
marble can not withstand any exposure to acids such as citric acid from lemon
juice. If exposed it will etch and lose its shine.
Marble
is most appropriate for formal, lightly used floors but is always in great
demand for bathrooms and fireplaces. Not normally for exterior use.
Sizes: 12" x 12",
slab
Travertine
Travertines are very similar to marble, but have open tubular
veining in the stone that is typically filled when processed. They also have a
more directional veining when cut with the grain. Crosscut travertines are
becoming more and more popular for their non-directional veining. Travertines
come either polished or honed (satin finish). Sizes: 12" x 12"
Granite
Granite
is a very hard volcanic rock that can withstand much more abuse than marble. It
is appropriate for kitchen counters, floors, bathrooms, etc. The polished
surface of the stone can be used in high use residential counters with minimal
upkeep. Like all stones, granite should be sealed after installation to
minimize the risk of stain occurring. Sizes: 12" x 12" &
slab
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary stone that has become increasingly popular
for floors and bathrooms. It has similar properties to marble and often comes
in a honed finish. Unlike polished marble, honed limestone has better
resistance to etching and scratching. Limestone should always be sealed after
installation. Sizes: 12" x 12", 16" x 16" & 24" x 24"
Slate
Slates
are composed of layers of rock, sometimes showing great color variations from
layer to layer. Slate is a very porous stone that must be sealed for any
interior application. The material has a clefted (textured) surface which makes
it it a very non-slip surface. It can be used for floors, fireplaces, kitchen
backsplashes, etc. Slate makes an excellent exterior material. Sizes: 12" x
12" & 18" x 18"
Tumbled
Stone
Tumbled
stone is marble, travertine, limestone or slate that is cut and then tumbled to
achieve a very rustic, old-world appearance. 4 Inch tumbled marble is extremely
popular for kitchen backplashes, especially with granite countertops. Tumbled
stones also make very durable, non-slip floors. All tumbled stones should be
sealed with a high quality sealer. Sizes: 2" x 2" to 16" x 16"
|